Introduction
On September 28, Geneva will hold the first round of an important partial election for the State Council, following the unexpected resignation of Antonio Hodgers. Ten candidates are vying for this position, but three favorites stand out: the Green Party’s Nicolas Walder (59), the UDC’s Lionel Dugerdil (44), and the Centrist Xavier Magnin (56). Each candidate has distinct priorities and visions for the future of Geneva.
The Candidates
As we explore the candidacies, it’s crucial to understand their backgrounds and outlooks. Nicolas Walder, currently a National Councillor and former administrative councillor of Carouge, seeks to promote continuity while advocating for urban greening initiatives. He emphasizes the importance of lowering rent and supporting local agriculture.
Lionel Dugerdil, the UDC candidate and a professional farmer, prioritizes public service revitalization. He stresses the need for efficient housing solutions for Geneva residents, insisting on faster collaboration among services to deliver more housing options.
<Xavier Magnin, having previously served as a Deputy and President of the Geneva Municipal Association, is also focused on housing. He believes in building within the city while preserving agricultural zones, aiming to foster modern neighborhoods with quick access to shops and cultural infrastructures.
Envisioning the Future
When asked what they hope to achieve in twelve years, each candidate paints a hopeful picture of their contributions. Walder dreams of inaugurating a large park in the PAV area, featuring a renewed Drize river and a Democracy House at the Place des Nations. For him, these projects symbolize a greener, more inclusive Geneva.
Magnin envisions a robust economy that provides jobs and housing for the middle class without sacrificing nature. His commitment reflects a desire to enhance the quality of life for Genevans while maintaining respect for the environment.
Dugerdil’s aspirations center around transforming the State into a more efficient and cost-effective entity, focusing on improving the overall quality of life for Geneva’s inhabitants. His pragmatic approach seeks to address fiscal concerns while still considering the needs of residents.
What Sets Them Apart?
Although the candidates share some common ground, their differences are significant. Magnin critiques Dugerdil for wanting Geneva to remain isolated, advocating instead for an open approach. He also challenges Walder’s ideology, arguing that overly strict regulations could hinder employment growth and economic health.
Walder counters that his primary distinction lies in addressing both environmental challenges and living costs, aiming for a society where everyone can live with dignity and security. He believes in the essentiality of inclusivity and environmental responsibility.
Dugerdil asserts his pragmatic business background as a point of differentiation. Unlike his competitors, he positions himself as a candidate focused on Geneva’s immediate concerns rather than broader federal issues, advocating for the importance of entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
As the election approaches, the candidates—Nicolas Walder, Lionel Dugerdil, and Xavier Magnin—present diverse visions for Geneva’s future. Their differing approaches to housing, economic growth, and environmental policies will shape the city’s trajectory in the years to come. Voters must weigh these priorities carefully as they head to the polls.
